Crocodile monitor – Lilian

Scientific name :

Varanus salvadorii

Common name :

crocodile monitor

Native to :

this species is native to mangroves and coastal forests on the island of New Guinea

Maximum size :

up to 4 metres

Weight :

30 kg and more

Lifespan :

up to 45 years

Conservation status :

Least Concern (LC)

Diet :

birds, fish, frogs, rodents

Characteristics :

along with its cousin the Komodo dragon, the crocodile monitor is the largest lizard species in the world. Males can be over 3 metres long. It has a slender body, a very long tail and powerful clawed feet with which to climb trees. It’s an excellent hunter and uses its tongue to find its prey. With its long, sharp teeth, it can catch small prey which it kills by biting into it. It’s known as the “tree crocodile” because of its characteristic bulbous snout. This species is still relatively rare in zoos; our couple arrived in Pierrelatte in March 2014. In a few years’ time, they will be introduced to the artificial mangrove which will be developed as part of the next extension at La Ferme aux Crocodiles.

Location in the Tropical Reserve :

in the vivariums